Article of footwear and charging system

ABSTRACT

A charging system can include provisions for providing power to various systems or components associated with the article of footwear. A charging system may include a charging unit with one or more components configured for use with one or more articles of footwear, where the articles of footwear can include different sizes. The components can be magnetically joined to the article in some cases. Upon connection with a power source, the article may be configured to unlace automatically. In some cases, the charging system can be used to facilitate the transfer of power to components in an automated tensioning system.

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/260,938, filed on Nov. 30, 2015, which isincorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present embodiments relate generally to articles of footwear andinclude removable motorized adjustment systems.

Articles of footwear generally include two primary elements: an upperand a sole structure. The upper is often formed from a plurality ofmaterial elements (e.g., textiles, polymer sheet layers, foam layers,leather, synthetic leather) that are stitched or adhesively bondedtogether to form a void on the interior of the footwear for comfortablyand securely receiving a foot. More particularly, the upper forms astructure that extends over instep and toe areas of the foot, alongmedial and lateral sides of the foot, and around a heel area of thefoot. The upper may also incorporate a lacing system to adjust the fitof the footwear, as well as permitting entry and removal of the footfrom the void within the upper. Likewise, some articles of apparel mayinclude various kinds of closure systems for adjusting the fit of theapparel.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an article offootwear. The article of footwear comprising an upper and a solestructure and an automated tensioning system that is configured toadjust a tension level of the article of footwear from a first tensionlevel to a second tension level, where the first tension level isgreater than the second tension level. The article of footwear alsoincludes a charging assembly. The charging assembly having an internalcharging device and a housing. The article of footwear has a sensor,where the sensor provides information to the automated tensioning systemwhen the charging assembly is connected to an external charging device.Furthermore, the automated tensioning system is configured to loosen thearticle of footwear from the first tension level to the second tensionlevel when the automated tensioning system receives information from thesensor indicating that the charging assembly is connected to theexternal charging device.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method ofcontrolling an article of footwear including an upper, a sole structure,an interior cavity, an automated tensioning system, a battery, acharging assembly, and a sensor. The method comprises receivinginformation from the sensor, where the sensor is configured to detect aconnection of the charging assembly with an external charging device,and detecting if the charging assembly is connected to the externalcharging device. The method also includes automatically loosening thearticle of footwear through an operation of the automated tensioningsystem if the sensor determines that the charging assembly is connectedto the external charging device.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a kit of parts.The kit of parts includes an article of footwear with an upper, a solestructure, an interior cavity, an automated tensioning system, abattery, a charging assembly, and a first sensor. The external chargingdevice is configured to connect with the charging assembly in order tocharge the battery of the article of footwear, and the charging assemblyincludes a ferromagnetic material, such that the charging assembly canmagnetically couple with the external charging device.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the embodiments willbe, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the following figures and detailed description. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, features, andadvantages be included within this description and this summary, bewithin the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the followingclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the followingdrawings and description. The components in the figures are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustratingthe principles of the invention. Moreover, in the figures, likereference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout thedifferent views.

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a kit of parts,including a charging system comprising a pair of footwear and a chargingdevice;

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an embodiment of a charging device;

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a charging systemcomprising a charging device and an article of footwear;

FIG. 5 is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a pair offootwear with a pair of charging devices;

FIG. 6 is an isometric bottom-side view of an embodiment of an articleof footwear with a portion of a charging device;

FIG. 7 is an isometric bottom-side view of an embodiment of an articleof footwear with a portion of a charging device;

FIG. 8 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of an article offootwear and a portion of a charging device;

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of an article offootwear and a portion of a charging device;

FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of an article offootwear and a portion of a charging device;

FIG. 11 is an isometric bottom-side view of an embodiment of an articleof footwear with a portion of a charging device;

FIG. 12 is an isometric bottom-side view of an embodiment of an articleof footwear with a portion of a charging device;

FIG. 13 is a rear isometric view of an embodiment of an article offootwear during charging and a foot being removed from the article offootwear;

FIG. 14 is a rear isometric view of an embodiment of an article offootwear during charging and a foot removed from the article offootwear;

FIG. 15 is an embodiment of a flow diagram for a process of an automatedfastening system;

FIG. 16 is a rear isometric view of an embodiment of an article offootwear dining charging;

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwearduring charging and a foot being inserted into the article of footwear;

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwearduring charging and a foot inserted in the article of footwear; and

FIG. 19 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a pair of footwear witha charging system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose articles offootwear and a method of charging articles of footwear. Conceptsassociated with the footwear disclosed herein may be applied to avariety of athletic footwear types, including running shoes, basketballshoes, soccer shoes, baseball shoes, football shoes, and golf shoes, forexample. Accordingly, the concepts disclosed herein apply to a widevariety of footwear types.

To assist and clarify the subsequent description of various embodiments,various terms are defined herein. Unless otherwise indicated, thefollowing definitions apply throughout this specification (including theclaims). For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives areemployed throughout this detailed description corresponding to theillustrated embodiments.

The term “longitudinal,” as used throughout this detailed descriptionand in the claims, refers to a direction extending a length of acomponent. For example, a longitudinal direction of an article offootwear extends between a forefoot region and a heel region of thearticle of footwear. The term “forward” is used to refer to the generaldirection in which the toes of a foot point, and the term “rearward” isused to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., the direction in whichthe heel of the foot is facing.

The term “lateral direction,” as used throughout this detaileddescription and in the claims, refers to a side-to-side directionextending a width of a component. In other words, the lateral directionmay extend between a medial side and a lateral side of an article offootwear, with the lateral side of the article of footwear being thesurface that faces away from the other foot, and the medial side beingthe surface that faces toward the other foot.

The term “side,” as used in this specification and in the claims, refersto any portion of a component facing generally in a lateral, medial,forward, or rearward direction, as opposed to an upward or downwarddirection.

The term “vertical,” as used throughout this detailed description and inthe claims, refers to a direction generally perpendicular to both thelateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in cases where a soleis planted flat on a ground surface, the vertical direction may extendfrom the ground surface upward. It will be understood that each of thesedirectional adjectives may be applied to individual components of asole. The term “upward” refers to the vertical direction heading awayfrom a ground surface, while the term “downward” refers to the verticaldirection heading toward the ground surface. Similarly, the terms “top,”“upper,” and other similar terms refer to the portion of an objectsubstantially furthest from the ground in a vertical direction, and theterms “bottom,” “lower,” and other similar terms refer to the portion ofan object substantially closest to the around in a vertical direction.

The “interior” of a shoe refers to space that is occupied by a wearer'sfoot when the shoe is worn. The “inner side” of a panel or other shoeelement refers to the face of that panel or element that is (or will be)oriented toward the shoe interior in a completed shoe. The “outer side”or “exterior” of an element refers to the face of that element that is(or will be) oriented away from the shoe interior in the completed shoe.In some cases, the inner side of an element may have other elementsbetween that inner side and the interior in the completed shoe.Similarly, an outer side of an element may have other elements betweenthat outer side and the space external to the completed shoe. Further,the terms “inward” and “inwardly” shall refer to the direction towardthe interior of the shoe, and the terms “outward” and “outwardly” shallrefer to the direction toward the exterior of the shoe.

For purposes of this disclosure, the foregoing directional terms, whenused in reference to an article of footwear, shall refer to the articleof footwear when sitting in an upright position, with the sole facinggroundward, that is, as it would be positioned when worn by a wearerstanding on a substantially level surface.

In addition, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “fixedlyattached” shall refer to two components joined in a manner such that thecomponents may not be readily separated (for example, without destroyingone or both of the components) Exemplary modalities of fixed attachmentmay include joining with permanent adhesive, rivets, stitches, nails,staples, welding or other thermal bonding, or other joining techniques.In addition, two components may be “fixedly attached” by virtue of beingintegrally formed, for example, in a molding process.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “removably attached” or“removably inserted” shall refer to the joining of two components or acomponent and an element in a manner such that the two components aresecured together, but may be readily detached from one another. Examplesof removable attachment mechanisms may include hook and loop fasteners,friction fit connections, interference fit connections, magneticconnections, threaded connectors, cam-locking connectors, compression ofone material with another, and other such readily detachable connectors.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a footwear charging system(“charging system”) 140. As shown in FIG. 1, charging system 140 may bea kit of parts in some embodiments. The kit of parts may include acontainer 115 configured to store components of charging system 140. Indifferent embodiments, charging system 140 may include a complementarypair of footwear (“pair”) 135, comprising a first article of footwear(“first article”) 100 and a second article of footwear (“second article)101. For purposes of this discussion, a complementary pair of footwearrefers to two articles of footwear that are designed to be worn as apair by one user on a right foot and a left foot.

However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the kit ofparts comprising charging system 140 may be separate from complementarypair of footwear 135. Thus, in some cases, charging system 140 may bemanufactured or configured separately from complementary pair offootwear 135. Furthermore, in some embodiments, charging system 140 maybe utilized with a. different pair of footwear.

Referring to FIG. 1, in sonic embodiments, charging system 140 mayfurther include an external charging unit (“charging unit”) 110. Indifferent embodiments, charging unit 110 can include multiple componentsfor connecting or contacting to various elements. In the embodimentsdepicted herein, charging unit 110 includes a first charging component(“first component”) 112 and a second charging component (“secondcomponent”) 114. In other embodiments, there may be only one chargingcomponent, or there may be additional charging components.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, charging unit 110 of charging system140 can include provisions for receiving power from an external powersource of sonic kind. In some embodiments, charging unit 110 can includea power cord 118 that is configured to receive power from an externalpower source. In one example, power cord 118 can be plugged into a wallsocket. Power cord 118 can comprise a plug and cord (or cable) in someembodiments. In one embodiment, power cord 118 may be configured for usein a wide range of environments. Thus, power cord 118 may be connectedto a standard AC power source or outlet i.e., sockets) some embodiments.In one embodiment, power cord 118 may connect with a 110-volt powersupply. In another embodiment, power cord 118 may be configured forutilization with a range of voltages, including 110, 115, 120, 220, 230,or other standard residential voltages, and/or DC power. In sonic cases,power cord 118 may be adapted for industrial voltage use. Thus, chargingunit 110 may be readily used in most of the locations where chargingunit 110 may be transported or used. Charging unit 110 will be discussedfurther below with respect to FIG. 3.

As shown in FIG. 1, container 115 may be configured to contain or storecomplementary pair of footwear 135 as well as charging unit 110 thatcomprises charging system 140. In some embodiments, container 115 may bea box, such as a traditional shoebox or plastic resealable container,with a lid 117 or cover. For purposes of clarity, container 115 isillustrated here with a particular design. In FIG. 1, container 115 isillustrated as a generally three-dimensional rectangular shoebox.However, in other embodiments, container 115 can comprise any type ofhousing with the capacity for storing articles of footwear. For example,container 115 can comprise a bag that resembles a traditionalduffle-type bag. Additionally, container 115 could be sized to fit asingle pair of footwear, a single article of footwear, or multiple pairsof footwear, as well as other portions of charging system 140, indifferent embodiments. In other embodiments, however, container 115could have any other design. In particular, container 115 could haveanother shape and/or size in other embodiments. Examples of otherdesigns for a container include, but are not limited to, any type ofbox, receptacle, housing, platform, bags, and/or backpacks. Furthermore,the container could include any provisions for carrying the container,including any type of strap or handle. In embodiments including chargingsystem 140, container 115 can include provisions for storing varioussystems or components associated with an article or charging component.In particular, in embodiments including an inductive charging system(see further below), container 115 can provide or be configured to holdor secure components of the inductive charging system that allow powerto be transferred from an external power source to complementary pair offootwear 135.

In some embodiments, one or more parts of charging system 140 caninclude provisions for indicating the status of the charging systemduring use. In some cases, one or both articles of footwear comprisingcomplementary pair of footwear 135 can include a visual indicator, suchas a light, for indicating the charging status. In other cases, chargingunit 110 can include a visual indicator, or can include a sound-basedindicator, such as a speaker configured to produce a sound to indicatethe charging status. In particular, charging indicators may be LEDlights that are lit to indicate the charging status of an article offootwear in some embodiments. For example, if first article 100 is beingcharged alone, only one light associated with first article 100 may belit. In another embodiment, if both articles of pair 135 are beingcharged, both a first light associated with first article 100 and asecond light associated with second article 101 may be lit. Furthermore,the color of one or both charging indicators and/or any sounds maychange depending on the status of the charging system. In differentembodiments, charging indicators may be disposed along any portion ofcharging system 140. However, in other embodiments, such as thoseillustrated herein, there may be no charging indicators included incharging system 140.

For purposes of description, only one article of complementary pair offootwear 135 will be discussed in detail below. However, it should beunderstood that descriptions provided with reference to first article100 may also be applicable to second article 101, including directionaladjectives and the identification of general components (e.g., a solestructure and an upper) comprising each article. In other embodiments,it should be understood that first article 100 and second article 101may include some differences in structure and/or design depending on thedesired use or function of pair 135.

In different embodiments, one or both articles comprising pair 135 maybe configured with an automated tensioning system (“tensioning system”)150. In the current embodiment, first article 100 is shown in the formof an athletic shoe, such as a running shoe. However, in otherembodiments, tensioning system 150 may be used with any other kind offootwear including, but not limited to, hiking boots, soccer shoes,football shoes, sneakers, running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugbyshoes, basketball shoes, baseball shoes as well as other kinds of shoes.Moreover, in some embodiments, tensioning system 150 may be configuredfor use with various kinds of non-sports-related footwear, including,but not limited to, slippers, sandals, high-heeled footwear, loafers aswell as any other kinds of footwear. As discussed in further detailbelow, a tensioning system may not be limited to footwear, and in otherembodiments, a tensioning system and/or components associated with atensioning system could be used with various kinds of apparel, includingclothing, sportswear, sporting equipment, and other kinds of apparel. Instill other embodiments, a tensioning system may be used with braces,such as medical braces.

As noted above, for consistency and convenience, directional adjectivesare employed throughout this detailed description. Referring now to FIG.2, it can be seen that first article 100 may be divided into threegeneral regions along a longitudinal axis 180: a forefoot region 105, amidfoot region 125, and a heel region 145. Forefoot region 105 generallyincludes portions of first article 100 corresponding with the toes andthe joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot region125 generally includes portions of first article 100 corresponding withan arch area of the foot. Heel region 145 generally corresponds withrear portions of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Forefoot region105, midfoot region 125, and heel region 145 are not intended todemarcate precise areas of first article 100. Rather, forefoot region105, midfoot region 125, and heel region 145 are intended to representgeneral relative areas of first article 100 to aid in the followingdiscussion. Since various features of first article 100 extend beyondone region of first article 100, the terms forefoot region 105, midfootregion 125, and heel region 145 apply not only to first article 100 butalso to the various elements or components comprising first article 100.

Referring to FIG. 2, for reference purposes, a lateral axis 190 of firstarticle 100, and any components related to first article 100, may extendbetween a medial side 165 and a lateral side 185 of the foot.Additionally, in some embodiments, longitudinal axis 180 may extend fromforefoot region 105 to heel region 145. It will be understood that eachof these directional adjectives may also be applied to individualcomponents of an article of footwear, such as an upper and/or a solemember. In addition, a vertical axis 170 refers to the axisperpendicular to a horizontal surface defined by longitudinal axis 180and lateral axis 190.

In different embodiments, first article 100 may include upper 102 andsole structure 104. Generally, upper 102 may be any type of upper. Inparticular, upper 102 may have any design, shape, size, and/or color.For example, in embodiments where first article 100 is a basketballshoe, upper 102 could be a high-top upper that is shaped to provide highsupport on an ankle. In embodiments where first article 100 is a runningshoe, upper 102 could be a low-top upper.

As shown in FIG. 2, upper 102 may include one or more material elements(for example, meshes, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather),which may be joined to define an interior void configured to receive afoot of a wearer. The material elements may be selected and arranged toselectively impart properties such as light weight, durability, airpermeability, wear resistance, flexibility, and comfort. Upper 102 maydefine an opening 130 through which a foot of a wearer may be receivedinto the interior void.

In different embodiments, at least a portion of sole structure 104 maybe fixedly attached to upper 102 (for example, with adhesive, stitching,welding, or other suitable techniques) and may have a configuration thatextends between upper 102 and the ground. Sole structure 104 may includeprovisions for attenuating ground reaction forces (that is, cushioningand stabilizing the foot during vertical and horizontal loading). Inaddition, sole structure 104 may be configured to provide traction,impart stability, and control or limit various foot motions, such aspronation, supination, or other motions.

In some embodiments, sole structure 104 may be configured to providetraction for first article 100. In addition to providing traction, solestructure 104 may attenuate ground reaction forces when compressedbetween the foot and the ground during walking, running, or otherambulatory activities. The configuration of sole structure 104 may varysignificantly in different embodiments to include a variety ofconventional or non-conventional structures. In some cases, theconfiguration of sole structure 104 can be configured according to oneor more types of ground surfaces on which sole structure 104 may beused.

For example, the disclosed concepts may be applicable to footwearconfigured for use on any of a variety of surfaces, including indoorsurfaces or outdoor surfaces. The configuration of sole structure 104may vary based on the properties and conditions of the surfaces on whichfirst article 100 is anticipated to be used. For example, sole structure104 may vary depending on whether the surface is harder or softer. Inaddition, sole structure 104 may be tailored for use in wet or dryconditions.

in some embodiments, sole structure 104 may be configured for aparticularly specialized surface or condition. The proposed footwearupper construction may be applicable to any kind of footwear, such asbasketball, soccer, football, and other athletic activities.Accordingly, in some embodiments, sole structure 104 may be configuredto provide traction and stability on hard indoor surfaces (such ashardwood), soft, natural turf surfaces, or on hard, artificial turfsurfaces In sonic embodiments, sole structure 104 may be configured foruse on multiple different surfaces.

As will be discussed further below, in different embodiments, solestructure 104 may include different components. In some embodiments,sole structure 104 may include multiple components, which mayindividually or collectively provide first article 100 with a number ofattributes, such as support, rigidity, flexibility, stability,cushioning, comfort, reduced weight, or other attributes. In someembodiments, sole structure 104 may include an insole/sockliner, acushioning layer, a midsole, and an outer sole member (“outsole”) 162,which may have an exposed, ground-contacting lower surface. In somecases, however, one or more of these components may be omitted. In oneembodiment, sole structure 104 may comprise a sole plate 161, as will befurther discussed below.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, an insole may be disposed in the voiddefined by upper 102. The insole may extend through each of forefootregion 105, midfoot region 125, and heel region 145, and between lateralside 185 and medial side 165 of first article 100. The insole may beformed of a deformable (for example, compressible) material, such aspolyurethane foams, or other polymer foam materials. Accordingly, theinsole may, by virtue of its compressibility, provide cushioning, andmay also conform to the foot in order to provide comfort, support, andstability.

In some embodiments, a midsole 151 may be fixedly attached to a lowerarea of upper 102 (for example, through stitching, adhesive bonding,thermal bonding (such as welding), or other techniques), or may beintegral with upper 102. Midsole 151 may be formed from any suitablematerial having the properties described above, according to theactivity for which first article 100 is intended. In some embodiments,midsole 151 may include a foamed polymer material, such as polyurethane(PU), ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), or any other suitable material thatoperates to attenuate ground reaction forces as sole structure 104contacts the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatoryactivities. In cases where midsole 151 has regions that are exposedalong the exterior of the article, materials can be adjusted to providegreater resilience and structural support.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, first article 100 may include a tongue172, which may be provided near or along a throat opening 132. In someembodiments, tongue 172 may be provided in or near an instep region offirst article 100. However, in other embodiments, tongue 172 may bedisposed along other portions of an article of footwear, or an articlemay not include a tongue. In addition, in some cases, sole structure 104can include one or more cleat members or traction elements that areconfigured to increase traction with a ground surface.

As noted above, in different embodiments, first article 100 may includetensioning system 150. Tensioning system 150 may comprise variouscomponents and systems for adjusting the size of opening 130 leading toan interior void and tightening (or loosening) upper 102 around awearer's foot. Some examples of different tensioning systems that can beused are disclosed in Beers et al., U.S. Patent Publication Number2014/0070042 published Mar. 13, 2014, (previously U.S. PatentApplication No. 14/014,555, filed Aug. 30, 2013) and entitled “MotorizedTensioning System with Sensors” and Beers et al., U.S. Pat. No.8,056,269, issued Nov. 15, 2011 (previously U.S. Patent Publication No.2009/0272013, published Nov. 5, 2009) and entitled “Article of Footwearwith Lighting System,” the disclosures of which are incorporated hereinby reference in their entirety.

In some embodiments, tensioning system 150 may comprise one or morelaces, as well as a motorized tensioning device. A lace may beconfigured to pass through various lacing guides 154 in someembodiments, which may be further associated with the edges of throatopening 132. In some cases, lacing guides 154 may provide a similarfunction to traditional eyelets on uppers. In particular, as a lace ispulled or tensioned, throat opening 132 may generally constrict so thatupper 102 is tightened around a foot.

The arrangement of lacing guides 154 in the figures is only intended tobe exemplary, and it will be understood that other embodiments are notlimited to a particular configuration for lacing guides 154.Furthermore, the particular types of lacing guides 154 illustrated inthe embodiments are also exemplary, and other embodiments mayincorporate any other kinds of lacing guides or similar lacingprovisions. In some other embodiments, for example, laces could beinserted through traditional eyelets. Some examples of lace guidingprovisions that may be incorporated into the embodiments are disclosedin Cotterman et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication Number2012/0000091, published Jan. 5, 2012 and entitled “Lace Guide,” thedisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Additional examples are disclosed in Goodman et al., U.S. PatentApplication Publication Number 2011/0266384, published Nov. 3, 2011 andentitled “Reel Based Lacing System,” the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Still an additionalexample of lace guides is disclosed in Kerns et al., U.S. PatentApplication Publication Number 2011/0225843, published Sep. 22, 2011 andentitled “Guides For Lacing Systems,” the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Thus, in some embodiments, a lace may be passed through lacing guides154. In other embodiments, a lace may pass through internal channelswithin upper 102 after entering channel openings that are near lacingguides 154. In some embodiments, internal channels extend around thesides of upper 102 and guide the lace toward a motorized tensioningdevice disposed in sole structure 104. In some cases, the motorizedtensioning device may include provisions for receiving portions of alace. In some cases, end portions of the lace can exit internal channelsof upper 102 and can pass through apertures in a housing unit thatcontains a motorized tensioning device.

In some embodiments, a motorized tensioning device may generally beconfigured to automatically apply tension to a lace for purposes oftightening and loosening upper 102. A motorized tensioning device maythus include provisions for winding a lace onto, and unwinding a lacefrom, a spool internal to the motorized tensioning device. Moreover, theprovisions may include an electric motor that automatically winds andunwinds the spool in response to various inputs or controls.

In FIG. 2, a bottom view 250 of first article 100 is also depicted nearfirst article 100. Bottom view 250 includes a magnified view of outsole162 and sole plate 161. Sole structure 104 includes outsole 162 joinedto midsole 151, where midsole 151 is joined to or is disposed adjacentto sole plate 161. In different embodiments, outsole 162 may include ashape and size substantially similar to that of at least a portion ofmidsole 151. For example, in FIG. 2, it can be seen that outsole 162extends over and covers a large portion of midsole 151. In otherembodiments, outsole 162 may comprise a different shape or size. In oneembodiment, outsole 162 may cover a smaller portion of midsole 151 thandepicted here. In other embodiments, outsole 162 may be substantiallylarger than midsole 151.

For purposes of reference, the regions of overlap between outsole 162and midsole 151 may be divided into a first portion 202, a bridgeportion 204, and a second portion 206. In different embodiments, theshape of these portions can vary. In one embodiment, first portion 202may resemble a generally elliptical or oval shape that is joined to anoblong rectangular-shaped second portion 206, where first portion 202and second portion 206 are joined along a substantiallyrectangular-shaped bridge portion 204. Bridge portion 204 may be narrowrelative to either first portion 202. or second portion 206. In otherembodiments, the perimeter and shape of different portions of outsole162 and midsole 151 may vary from what is depicted here, and include anyregular or irregular shape.

Referring specifically to bridge portion 204 in FIG. 2, it may be notedthat relative to a central longitudinal axis 280, bridge portion 204 canbe disposed further toward one side versus another side. In FIG. 2,bridge portion 204 is arranged such that it is disposed along medialside 165 of sole structure 104. In other words, if it is understood thatcentral longitudinal axis 280 represents a longitudinal midline ofmidsole 151, bridge portion 204 may be laterally offset with respect tocentral longitudinal axis 280. In another embodiment, bridge portion 204may be disposed more centrally and/or extend across both sides of solestructure 104.

As a result of the shape and size of bridge portion 204, two “exposedregions” may be disposed on either side of bridge portion 204. As notedearlier, sole plate 161 may be at least partially exposed in theassembled sole structure. Thus, an underside 200 of sole plate 161 asshown herein can include one or more exposed regions. In FIG. 2, soleplate 161 includes two exposed regions, here referred to as a firstregion 230 and a second region 240.

In some embodiments, first region 230 may encompass or comprise a largerarea than second region 240. For example, in FIG. 2, first region 230has a first area 233 and second region 240 has a second area 235, wherefirst area 233 is greater than second area 235. In other words, firstregion 230 and second region 240 may be asymmetric with respect to theirdegree of exposure. Thus, underside 200 of sole plate 161 isasymmetrically exposed, where medial side 165 of sole plate 161 is lessexposed (or is smaller in area) than lateral side 185 of sole plate 161.However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, first area233 may be substantially similar to or less than second area 235. Forexample, medial side 165 of sole plate 161 can be more exposed (or belarger in area) than lateral side 185 of sole plate 161 in someembodiments.

In some embodiments, outsole 161 may include provisions for storing,securing, holding, or otherwise housing a charging assembly 270 withinsole structure 104. In one embodiment, charging assembly 270 can includeone or more components configured to provide various electrical ormechanical functions to first article 100. For example, in FIG. 2.,charging assembly 270 comprises a housing unit (“housing”) 272. Housing272 can contain or hold different mechanical or electrical components,such as circuitry, textiles, or other materials. In some embodiments,housing 272. may include various mechanisms or components that can beutilized in tensioning system 150. For example, within the interior ofhousing 272 there may be a battery (or other power source), circuitry(or other control mechanism), spools, gears, a motor, light sources,and/or other mechanisms. In one embodiment, housing 272 can include aninternal charging device 274 that may facilitate the charging oftensioning system 150 in first article 100. In some embodiments,internal charging device 274 can be linked to or otherwise connected toan external charging system (such as charging unit 110 of FIG. 1) totransfer power to a battery associated with first article 100. In oneembodiment, internal charging device 274 can comprise internal inductiveloops that can be charged by an inductive charging system. In addition,in some embodiments, housing 272 can optionally include a securingelement that can facilitate the connection of an external chargingcomponent with sole structure 104 (see FIGS. 8-10). For example, in someembodiments, there may be an attractive or a magnetic component disposedin housing 272 that can provide a securing mechanism with an externalcharging component, as will be discussed further below.

Furthermore, first article 100 may include provisions for detectingvarious changes in first article 100 or for the detection of connectionsof first article 100 to other external components. For example, someembodiments of first article 100 may utilize various kinds of devicesfor sending commands to the motorized tensioning system or other systemsassociated with first article 100. In some embodiments, first article100 can incorporate one or more sensors for providing information to amotorized tensioning system that can trigger or initiate variouscommands. As one example, pressure sensors could be used under theinsoles of an article to indicate when the user is standing. In anotherembodiment, a motorized tensioning system can be programmed toautomatically loosen the tension of the lace when the user moves fromthe standing position to a sitting position, a movement detected by theuse of a sensor. In other embodiments, various features of a motorizedtensioning system may turn on or off, or adjust the tension of a lace,in response to information from a sensor. However, in other embodiments,it will be understood that the use of any sensor may be optional.

In different embodiments, the sensors providing information mightinclude, but are not limited to, pressure sensors in shoe insoles todetect standing and/or rate of motion, bend indicators, strain gauges,gyroscopes, and accelerometers. In some embodiments, instead of, or inaddition to, maintaining an initial tension of the laces, the sensorinformation may be used to establish a new target tension. For example,pressure sensors could be used to measure contact pressures of the upperof an article of footwear against the foot of a wearer and automaticallyadjust to achieve a desired pressure.

Thus, housing 272 may include a sensor in some embodiments. In differentembodiments, as will be discussed further below with respect to FIGS. 11and 12, a sensor may detect and measure a relative change with respectto a connection that is created between charging assembly 270 and acomponent of the charging system. For purposes of this disclosure, theuse of the term “connect” or “connection” in the context of the chargingsystem, charging assembly and/or charging unit should be understood tomean a link that occurs between two devices or components thatfacilitates access or communication of a transfer of power orinformation related to the charging process. The link may occur as aresult of the physical contact between two surfaces, but it may also becreated through wireless signals or signals that do not require physicalcontact. The use of sensors will be discussed further with respect toFIGS. 11 and 12.

Thus, in different embodiments, first article 100 can be configured foruse with an external charging unit. In some embodiments, the dimensionsof the exposed regions of sole plate 161 (i.e., first region 230 orsecond region 240) may facilitate a connection with an external chargingunit. Furthermore, sole structure 104 can include a recess 276 that isdimensioned to receive a portion of an external charging unit indifferent embodiments. In some embodiments, recess 276 can be formed ordefined by portions of the surfaces of underside 200 of sole plate 161,outsole 162, and midsole 151. Recess 276 can have a first volume that isconfigured to receive, enclose, contain, or otherwise hold a portion ofanother device or component, as will be discussed further below. Inaddition, as will be discussed with respect to FIG. 4, the height ofrecess 276 can vary.

As noted above with respect to FIG. 1, in different embodiments,charging system 140 may include charging unit 110 comprising firstcomponent 112 and second component 114. In some cases, charging unit 110may facilitate the transfer of power to one or more articles offootwear. In other words, charging unit 110 may comprise a chargingstation and be configured to provide the functions of a charging system,as described above with respect to FIG. 1. Referring now to FIG. 3, insome embodiments, charging unit 110 may include provisions fortransferring power to one or more articles of footwear. In someembodiments, a charging unit can include a central processing unit (CPU)of some kind. In other embodiments, a charging unit could comprise asimple circuit of some kind for receiving electrical inputs andproviding an electrical output according to the inputs. In oneembodiment, a charging unit may include a printed circuit board. Thus,in some cases, a charging unit may include a number of ports thatfacilitate the input and output of information and power. The term“port” means any interface or shared boundary between two conductors forpurposes of this disclosure. In some cases, ports can facilitate theinsertion and removal of conductors. Examples of these types of portsinclude mechanical connectors. In other cases, ports are interfaces thatgenerally do not provide easy insertion or removal. Examples of thesetypes of ports include soldering or electron traces on circuit boards.In one embodiment, the charging unit can include one or more portsconfigured to transfer power to an external inductive loop. It should beunderstood that the reference to an external inductive loop is withrespect to an inductive loop that is external to an article of footwear.In other words, an external inductive loop may be enclosed or housedwithin a structure. For example, an external inductive loop can bedisposed within a portion of first component 112 and/or second component114, or some other portion of charging system 140. In some embodiments,an external inductive loop may be associated with an internal inductiveloop of a corresponding article of footwear.

Thus, in different embodiments, external charging unit 110 that isutilized in charging system 140 may be configured for use with firstarticle 100. In some embodiments, charging unit 110 can includecomponents that are dimensioned to be connected to first article 100.For example, in one embodiment, one or more components of charging unit110 can be dimensioned to be received by a portion of sole structure 104(see FIG. 2). In particular, in some cases, a component can bedimensioned to fit or be received by recess 276 in sole structure 104(see FIG. 2).

For purposes of illustration, the discussion herein will focus on firstcomponent 112. However, it should be understood that features anddescriptions provided regarding first component 112 may be generallyapplicable to second component 114 in some embodiments. To betterillustrate an embodiment of first component 112 for the reader, anisometric magnified view 300 of first component 112 is included in FIG.3.

First component 112 may have a housing structure that can comprisedifferent shapes in different embodiments. In some embodiments, firstcomponent 112 may comprise a generally cylindrical geometry, including atop portion 302 associated with a top side, and a base portion 304associated with a bottom side, as well as a continuous, curved surface306 extending between top portion 302 and base portion 304. Top portion302 and base portion 304 are depicted as generally circular in FIG. 3.However, in other embodiments, the dimensions and/or shape of topportion 302, base portion 304, and/or curved surface 306 may differ,including but not limited to oblong, triangular, square, rectangular,oval, elliptical, or other regular or irregular shapes. Thus, indifferent embodiments, first component 112 can have a spherical, prism,cone, pyramidal, cuboid, or other regular or irregular geometry. In someembodiments, the geometry of first component 112 or the shapes of one ormore of its surfaces may be configured to correspond or match with aportion of first article 100, as will be discussed further below.

In different embodiments, the texture of the outer surfaces comprisingfirst component 112 may be smooth or generally untextured surfaces.However, in other embodiments, some surfaces can exhibit textures orother surface characteristics, such as dimpling, protrusions, ribs,ridges, securing elements, nubs, or various patterns, for example. Insome cases, first component 112 can include one or more locating orstructural features to facilitate alignment of first component 112within charging system 140. In particular, in embodiments using aninductive charging system, it may be necessary to ensure properalignment of internal inductive loops disposed within each article withany external inductive loops disposed in charging unit 110.

It should be understood that in other embodiments, other types oflocating features may be used. For example, in some cases, top portion302 can be configured with recesses that engage protrusions located onbottom surfaces of first region 230 of sole plate 161 (see FIG. 2). Inother cases, top portion 302 can be configured with protrusions thatengage recesses located on bottom surfaces of first region 230 of soleplate 161 (see FIG. 2). In still other embodiments, other types oflocating features that are known in the art can be used. With thesearrangements, an article can be maintained in a predetermined locationwith respect to first component 112. In particular, articles may bepositioned in a manner that orients any internal inductive loops withany external inductive loops disposed within first component 112.However, in some embodiments, top portion 302 does not include locatingfeatures, and may be substantially smooth or flat.

In addition, different surfaces of first component 112 may comprisevarying dimensions in some embodiments. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, itcan be seen that top portion 302 has a third area 333 defined by asubstantially round perimeter (or circumference). In the embodimentsdepicted herein, base portion 30 may have a substantially similar areato top portion 302. However, in other embodiments, top portion 302 mayhave a different sized area than base portion 304.

In addition, in some cases, the dimensions of first component 112 may beconfigured to accommodate a corresponding portion in an article offootwear, as noted above. In some embodiments, third area 333 may besubstantially similar to or less that first area 233 (shown in FIG. 2).In other words, third area 333 may be the same or smaller than theexposed first region 230 of sole plate 161 in FIG. 2. In one embodiment,this may allow top portion 302 of first component 112 to be disposedflush against the surface of first region 230, as will be discussed inFIGS. 5-7.

Furthermore, first component 112 may include a second volume that can besubstantially similar to or less that the first volume of recess 276(shown in FIG. 2) in different embodiments. In other words, the secondvolume of first component 112 may be the same or smaller than the firstvolume associated with recess 276 of sole plate 161 in FIG. 2. In someembodiments, this can allow first component 112 to be disposed fullywithin the space bounded by recess 276, as will be discussed in FIGS.5-7.

The interior of first component 112 may include different elements invarious embodiments. For example, first component 112 (which comprisesthe housing that is generally defined by the various outer surfaces thathave been described above) can encase one or more inductive loops,circuitry, wiring, or other charging components. Furthermore, as will bediscussed below with respect to FIGS. 8-10, first component 112 caninclude a region or component that has a greater degree of magneticattraction, such as a ferromagnetic material that can be disposed alongthe outer surface of first component 112, or in the interior of firstcomponent 112.

In some embodiments, top portion 302 and base portion 304 comprisesubstantially similar materials. In other embodiments, top portion 302and base portion 304 can differ. For example, top portion 302 mayinclude a region configured to improve or facilitate a connection to asole structure. In addition, in one embodiment, base portion 304 may begenerally smooth and/or flat. However, in other embodiments, baseportion 304 may comprise undulations or bumps, or other types oftexturing. In some cases, there may be traction elements disposed alongbase portion 304 to help anchor or secure first component 112, forexample. Thus, in some embodiments, base portion 304 can includeprovisions for stability or grip on a ground surface.

Although the current embodiment generally describes an externalinductive loop disposed in first component 112 of charging unit 110,other embodiments can include external inductive loops disposed in otherportions of charging unit 110. Furthermore, while the current embodimentincludes internal inductive loops disposed in a sole structure of anarticle of footwear, in other embodiments an internal inductive loopcould be disposed in any other portion of an article of footwear.Examples of other portions that could house an internal inductive loopinclude, but are not limited to, a tongue, an upper sidewall, a forefootportion of an upper, a heel portion of an upper, as well as any otherportion of an article of footwear. In some embodiments, the location ofan internal inductive loop in an article of footwear can be selectedaccording to the location of an external inductive loop in a chargingunit so that the internal inductive loop can be readily arrangedadjacent to the external inductive loop when the article is insertedonto or placed adjacent to the charging unit, allowing inductivecoupling (i.e., charging in an inductive based charging system) tooccur.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the outer housing associated withcharging devices and charging components or other components of thecharging system can be formed of various materials. In some embodiments,first component 112 can comprise different plastics, polymers,thermoplastic polyurethane (IPU), nylon, glass, carbon fiber, carboncomposites, or other types of materials. In some embodiments, portionsof a charging component may comprise a light-diffusive material.

As described above with respect to FIG. 1, charging unit 110 can includepower cord 118 that is configured to receive power from an externalpower source. In different embodiments, first component 112 and/orsecond component 114 of charging unit 110 may be connected with,integral with, or fixedly attached to a first cable line 350 that ispart of power cord 118, as shown in FIG. 3. For example, in oneembodiment, first component 112 can contact, link, join, or be otherwiseattached to first cable line 350. In some cases, first component 112 caninclude a port that connects first component 112 with first cable line350. In different embodiments, the various portions of power cord 118may comprise different lengths, dimensions, materials, andconfigurations, including any cables or cords known in the art. Forexample, in one embodiment, power cord 118 can comprise a Y-type cable,as shown in FIG. 3. In other words, there may be first cable line 350extending from first component 112 and a second cable line 352 extendingfrom second component 114. First cable line 350 and second cable line352 can join at a central region 354, and extend toward a power adaptor360 along a central cable line 356. Thus, in some embodiments, firstcomponent 112 and second component 114 may be configured to be moved orarranged independently of one another. In addition, first component 112can be utilized by an article of footwear without a concurrent use ofsecond component 114, for example.

As noted above, various portions of charging system 140 (see FIG. 1) canbe configured to accommodate or connect to one another. For example, asdescribed with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, first component 112 andrecess 276 may have dimensions that complement each other and facilitatethe connection of first component 112 with charging assembly 270. Inaddition, in some embodiments, recess 276 can have a first volume thatis greater than or substantially similar to the second volume of firstcomponent 112; similarly, first region 230 of recess 276 can have firstarea 233 that is greater to or substantially similar to third area 333(see FIGS. 2 and 3).

Referring now to FIG. 4, upper 102 and portions of sole structure 104 offirst article 100 are shown in dotted line to reveal the dimensions ofrecess 276 relative to first component 112. First component 112 has athickness 410 that extends between top portion 302 and base portion 304.Thickness 410 also generally corresponds to the width of curved surface306 in FIG. 4. Similarly, recess 276 in sole structure 104 has a height420. As shown in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, thickness 410 may be lessthan height 420. This difference in thickness can facilitate the link orassociation between first component 112 and an article of footwear insome embodiments, as will be discussed below. However, in otherembodiments, thickness 410 may be substantially similar to height 420 orlarger than height 420.

In one embodiment, thickness 410 may be generally consistent throughoutfirst component 112, and height 420 may be generally consistentthroughout recess 276. However, in other embodiments, there may beirregularities throughout first component 112 and/or sole structure 104,such that the thicknesses or height are not consistent. For example, inembodiments where first component 112 includes ridges or otherirregularities along top portion 302, there may be correspondingirregularities in the thickness of first component. In such cases,thickness 410 may be understood to represent the maximum thickness offirst component 410.

In some embodiments, due to the difference between thickness 410 andheight 420 (as shown in FIG. 4), the upper surface of recess 276(associated with the underside of sole plate 161 in first region 230, asshown in FIG. 2) may be spaced apart from top portion 302 of firstcomponent 112, such that there is no physical contact between the twosurfaces. In other embodiments, due to the close or substantiallysimilar value of height 420 and thickness 410, the upper surface ofrecess 276 may contact or press against the surface of top portion 302of first component 112.

Thus, the various and dimensions of first component 112 sole structure104 relative to one another can allow different surfaces associated witheach to press or contact against each other. These correlations ofdimension may permit first component 112 to more snugly join and/or belodged within recess 276 formed along sole structure 104. However, inother embodiments, thickness 410 and height 420 may differ, and the twoportions may be joined together in a different way.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, recess 276 can also accommodate anexternal charging component while ensuring first article 100 remains ina substantially normal position when disposed over the chargingcomponent. As described above, in some embodiments, the height of recess276 may be greater than or substantially similar to the thickness offirst charging component 112. In some cases, this can allow the bottomsurface (e.g., outsole 62) of first article 100 to be generally flush orlie substantially flat against an indoor or outdoor ground surface whenfirst article 100 is disposed over the charging component. Thissubstantially level accommodation of the charging component may increasethe ease-of-use, stability, and comfort during use of first article 100with the charging system.

Referring now to FIG. 5, an isometric view of pair 135, including firstarticle 100 and second article 101, is illustrated adjacent to chargingunit 110 that comprises first component 112 and second component 114.Power cord 118 of charging unit 110 is connected to a power source 518,allowing charging unit 110 to be activated and ready to receive pair135. Dotted lines are included to represent an embodiment of a manner inwhich pair 135 may be subsequently aligned and positioned with respectto charging unit 110. As noted previously in FIG. 2., first article 100can include midsole 151 and outsole 162. Furthermore, midsole 151 can bedisposed adjacent to sole plate 161. Sole plate 161 includes a portionalong midfoot region 125 that is an exposed outer surface (associatedwith first region 230 and second region 240 of FIG. 2). In FIG. 5, itcan be seen that first article 100 has a first recess 576 and secondarticle 101 has a second recess 578, which are each substantiallysimilar to recess 276 discussed previously with respect to FIGS. 2-4.

As discussed above, in some embodiments, the correspondence between eachof the two components of charging unit 110 and each of the recesses ofpair 135 may allow the two surfaces to readily contact or adjoin oneanother. FIG. 5 depicts one embodiment of the manner in which botharticles can be positioned with first component 112 and second component114. In some embodiments, first article 112 may be mounted on eitherfirst component 112 or second component 114, and second article 114 maybe mounted with either first component 112 or second component 114.However, in other embodiments, each component may be configured for usewith only one article of pair 135.

In some embodiments, electricity received at an external power sourcecan be transferred to the charging unit via power cord 118. In oneembodiment, the electricity can then be transferred to an externalinductive loop 550 disposed within first component 112. By using anexternal power source with an alternating current, power can beinductively transferred between the external inductive loop and theinternal inductive loops of internal charging device 274 disposed incharging assembly 270 of sole structure 104. In particular, analternating magnetic field can be created around the external inductiveloop, which can induce a current in the corresponding internal inductiveloop. This arrangement allows power to be transferred to a rechargeablepower source, such as a battery, that may be disposed within firstarticle 100, which can provide power for an automatic tensioning system.

It should be understood that the charging system described herein maydiffer in other ways. For example, the charging system of the presentdisclosure may include features of charging systems disclosed in Beerset al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,058,837, issued Nov. 15, 2011 (previously U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/369,410, filed Feb. 11, 2009) andentitled “Charging System for an Article of Footwear,” the entiredisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-19, in different embodiments, charging unit 110may be configured for use with pair 135. For purposes of illustration,the discussion herein will focus on first component 112 and firstarticle 100. However, it should be understood that features anddescriptions provided regarding first component 112 and first article100 (as well as components associated with first article 100) may begenerally applicable to second component 114 and second article 101 indifferent embodiments.

in FIGS. 6 and 7, an isometric bottom view of first article 100 is shownas first component 112 is mounted or installed. Thus, a portion of theexposed surface of first region 230 of sole plate 161 (as shown in FIG.2) can be positioned such that it is disposed adjacent to top portion302 of first component 112. In one embodiment, first component 112 canbe received by recess 276 such that a portion of curved surface 306 canpress or contact a side surface 676 of midsole 151. Furthermore, in someembodiments, the curvature of curved surface 306 may be substantiallysimilar to the curvature of side surface 676 and improve the fit betweenthe surfaces. In other words, the angle associated with the curve ofside surface 676 may be substantially similar to the angle associatedwith the curve of curved surface 306. These types of correlations maypermit first component 112 to more snugly join and/or be lodged orpressed against the surfaces comprising recess 276. However, in otherembodiments, first component 112 and recess 276 may differ, and the twoportions may be joined together in a different way. In particular, firstarticle 100 may be positioned in a manner that orients any internalinductive loops with any external inductive loops disposed within firstcomponent 112.

As noted previously, with these arrangements, each article can bemaintained in a predetermined location with respect to its chargingunits during charging, which is especially beneficial in embodimentsthat incorporate an inductive charging system. In order to facilitatethe connection between first component 112 and first article 100, theremay be additional provisions included in some embodiments. In differentembodiments, various types of securing elements may be incorporated inarticle 100. Some of the embodiments disclosed herein may include one ormore securing elements that can facilitate the connection between anarticle of footwear and a charging unit.

Referring to FIGS. 8-10, it can be seen that in some embodiments,securing element(s) may comprise a magnetic fastener or magneticsecuring system. For example, in some embodiments, there may be magneticmaterials incorporated into one or both of the articles of footwear andthe charging unit. In some cases, the magnetic materials can correspondin position to the desired placement or positioning of the chargingcomponent relative to the sole structure. For example, in some cases,inductive loops disposed in first article 100 can be positioned tofacilitate the charging of components if an inductive charging system isbeing used. Thus, in some embodiments, charging system 140 may includeprovisions to facilitate the alignment of internal inductive loopsdisposed within each article with any external inductive loops disposedin the charging unit. In some embodiments, “magnetic securing elements”can be utilized to help ensure the proper position of the chargingcomponent with the exposed surface of the sole structure comprisingcharging assembly 270.

In some embodiments, the securing elements can attract one another,depending upon their relative polarities. In one embodiment, there maybe a magnetic coupling system included in charging system 140 with afirst magnetic securing element (“first element”) 810. One example of amagnetic coupling system is shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 8-10. Insome cases, a ferromagnetic material (first element 810) can be providedwithin or adjacent to housing 272 of the charging assembly. Where theferromagnetic material is formed as part of the material of housing 272,there need not be additional magnetically attractive materials in thesole structure, as housing 272 itself can attract a correspondingmagnetic securing element. However, in some embodiments, there caninstead (or also) be a ferromagnetic element (first element 810) that isdisposed directly above first region 230 in sole structure 104. As oneexample, first element 810 can be a flat piece of metal inserted inhousing 272 that may facilitate or strengthen the attachment of thecharging component to the sole structure. In such cases, the metal piececomprising first element 810 can be made of a magnetically attractivematerial so as to enhance its ability to attract any magnet in thecharging component (discussed below).

in some embodiments, there may be a second magnetic securing element(“second element”) 820 disposed within or adjacent to first component112. In some cases, second element 820 comprises a magnet-type material.Where the magnet is formed as part of the material of forming thestructure of first component 112, there need not be additional magneticcomponents in first component 112. However, in some embodiments, therecan instead (or also) be a magnetic element (second element 820) that isdisposed within first component 112. As one example, second element 820can be a magnet formed along the surface of first component 112 that maybe attracted to ferromagnetic materials (such as first element 810).

In some embodiments, the charging component(s) and/or any associatedmagnets can be coated with a water-insulating material like rubber toprotect it from everyday use in which an article of footwear may bedirty or covered with residual particles. In addition, the chargingcomponent(s) and magnetic portions can undergo oxidation to provide awater-insulating layer on the component.

In different embodiments, the size and/or weight of a magnetic securingelement as discussed with respect to second element 820 should be suchthat it does not make the charging component too heavy but isnevertheless sufficiently strong in terms of its magnetic power so as toenable the charging component to be readily attracted to the article offootwear. In addition, in some embodiments, the magnetic attractionshould be sufficient so that as a user subsequently removes his or herfoot from the article of footwear, the connection is not displaced orinterrupted (unless that is the intention of the user).

Attractive magnetic field 850 is schematically represented by a seriesof rings surrounding the illustration of first component 112 in FIGS.8-10. Thus, when first element 810 is brought in proximity of secondelement 820, attractive magnetic field 850 may draw both portions towardone another, and/or generate a pulling force. Once the two portions arebrought close enough to one another, the two elements can be pulled andheld together securely by an attractive force, allowing for a magneticconnective force. In some cases, the magnetic connection is supplementedby different securing mechanisms, which can securely fix first element810 alongside second element 820. Thus, even though first element 810and second element 820 may not directly (i.e., physically) contact oneanother in some embodiments, they may nevertheless be securely andremovably attached to one another through the proximity of first article100 to first component 112. In one embodiment, a user may facilitate thecoupling by stepping or moving toward charging component 112 whilewearing first article 100, as shown in FIGS. 8-10.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, a schematic view of an embodiment oftwo states associated with automated tensioning system 150 is depicted.In FIG. 11, first article 100 is shown in a laced state 1102, and inFIG. 12, first article 100 is shown in a fully unlaced state (“unlacedstate”) 1204. In terms of automated tensioning system 150, unlaced state1204 represents a specific condition in which the article of footwear isfully unlaced (as loose as the system is configured to allow the articleto become). In other embodiments, unlaced state 1204 may also representa level of tension in which the system recognizes that the article offootwear is loosened to a particular level of tension or tightness thatis preset by the system or desired by the user. In other words, unlacedstate 1204 need not only represent the “fully unlaced” condition of thearticle of footwear, and may also be associated with a minimal amount oftension of the lacing system.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, laced state 1102 can represent aspecific condition in which the system recognizes that the article offootwear is fully laced (as tightly as the system has been configured toallow the article to become). However, in some cases, laced state 1102may also represent a condition in which the system recognizes that thearticle of footwear is laced to a particular level of tension ortightness that is desired by the user or preset by the system. In otherwords, laced state 1102 need not represent the “fully laced” conditionof the article of footwear, and may also be associated with only aminimal amount of tension of the lacing system. However, laced state1102 is understood to be a greater tension level than unlaced state1204. In some embodiments, laced state 1102 can comprise all levels oftension associated with the automated tensioning system that are greaterthan the tension level of unlaced state unlaced state 1204.

As mentioned earlier, in some embodiments, different states or functionsmay be triggered by the activation of a sensor. In some embodiments, anauto-unlacing process may be initiated by the activation of a firstsensor 1100. In some embodiments, first sensor 1100 may be disposed inan article of footwear. In some embodiments, first sensor 1100 cancomprise a component that detects changes in magnetic forces, changes ininfrared radiation, microwaves, or ultrasonics, contact with aparticular surface, and/or proximity to another component. In otherembodiments, first sensor 1100 can include a capacitive sensor orcapacitive displacement sensor, a sensor based on the Doppler effect, aninductive sensor, an optical sensor, radar, sonar, or a fiber opticssensor. Other embodiments may include any type of sensors that candetect a connection between two components.

In some embodiments, as depicted in the magnified views of FIGS. 11 and12, first sensor 1100 may be disposed in midfoot region 125 of firstarticle 100. In one embodiment, first sensor 1100 can be located withinor adjacent to housing 272 of charging assembly 270. However, in otherembodiments, first sensor 1100 can be located anywhere in first article100 or in the charging unit itself. In some embodiments, a portion offirst sensor 1100 may be disposed in the charging unit and a portion offirst sensor 1100 may be disposed in first article 100.

Referring to FIG. 11, as first article 100 is not yet connected to firstcomponent 112, first sensor 1100 is not engaged or activated. In thiscase, first article 100 is shown in laced state 1102. (see a firstlacing region view 1150). However, as shown in subsequent FIG. 12, whenfirst article 100 is connected with first component 112, first sensor1100 can become activated in some embodiments. In some embodiments, theengagement of first sensor 1100 can initiate a series of events in thearticle of footwear and lead to a change in the state of automatedtensioning system 150. In one embodiment, the activation or engagementof first sensor 1100 initiates a process whereby first article 100 cantransition from laced state 1102 (see FIG. 11) to unlaced state 1204(shown in second lacing region view 1250). Thus, in some embodiments,the engagement of first sensor 1100 may inform tensioning system 150that first article 100 is now connected to a charging device, and anauto-unlacing process (depicted in FIG. 12 with arrows) of first article100 should occur.

The decrease in tension of first article 100 can allow a foot to be morereadily removed from first article 100 in different embodiments. In FIG.13, a foot 1300 is shown as it is being removed from first article 100.First article 100 is connected to first component 112 and, as discussedabove with respect to FIGS. 11 and 12, first article 100 is in unlacedstate 1204. In some embodiments, unlaced state 1204 may facilitate theremoval of foot 1300 from first article 100 by allowing foot 1300 to beremoved without additional interaction or adjustment of first article100 by a user. However, in other embodiments, a user may hold firstarticle 100 while removing foot 1300 from first article 100. FIG. 14shows the full removal of foot 1300 from first article 100, where firstarticle 100 remains connected to first component 112. Thus, in someembodiments, during the foot removal process, first article 100 can beconnected to the charging unit. In one embodiment, first article 100 cancharge while foot 1300 is removed from first article 100.

It should be understood that the embodiments of the charging systemdepicted herein may be used in different ways. For purposes ofillustration, FIG. 15 provides a flow chart depicting one process ofcontrolling an article of footwear, where the article of footwearincludes an upper, a sole structure, an interior cavity, an automatedtensioning system, a battery, a charging assembly, and a sensor. Thearticle of footwear can receive information from a sensor in a firststep 1500. In one embodiment, the method of controlling the article offootwear can include a second step 1510 of determining whether thecharging assembly is connected to the external charging device.Furthermore, a third step 1530 can comprise automatically loosening thearticle of footwear through an operation of the automated tensioningsystem if the sensor determines that the charging assembly is connectedto the external charging device. In addition, a fourth step 1540comprises making no adjustments to the tensioning system based on thesensor information if the sensor does not determine that the chargingassembly is connected to the external charging device.

In other embodiments, one article or a pair of footwear can be chargedand then removed to permit the charging of additional (different) pairsof footwear with the same charging unit. Furthermore, additionalembodiments can further comprise the step of determining if the batteryis charged. In another embodiment, an additional step can comprisedetermining if a foot is disposed in the interior cavity of the articleof footwear. In some embodiments, another step can include automaticallytightening the article of footwear through an operation of the automatedtensioning system if the battery is charged and a foot is disposed inthe interior cavity. Additional embodiments can comprise inductivelycharging the article of footwear when the charging assembly is connectedto the external charging device.

Furthermore, in another embodiment, second step 1510 of detecting aconnection also includes determining if magnetic coupling has occurredbetween the charging assembly and the external charging device. Inaddition, in some embodiments, third step 1530 of automaticallyloosening the article of footwear can further include the step ofinstructing the automated tensioning system to loosen the article offootwear.

As described above, in some embodiments, the external charging unit mayinclude provisions for charging a battery or other power sourceassociated with the article of footwear. FIG. 16 is one embodiment ofthe charging process with respect to first article 100. In differentembodiments, once a user has connected first article 100 to a chargingsource (here first component 112), the battery associated with firstarticle 100 may be charged. In some embodiments, as first article 100 isconnected to first component 112, the energy level of a battery 1600 mayincrease over time. In the illustration of FIG. 16, battery 1600 offirst article 100 is nearly depleted at the time of the connection, asshown with a first energy level 1610. However, in other embodiments,battery 1600 can be in any other energy state or have any other energylevel.

In FIG. 16, it can be seen that first article 100 remains in unlacedstate 1204 during the charging process. However, in other embodiments,the amount of tension of the article of footwear during charging canvary from that depicted here. Once battery 1600 is sufficiently charged(for example, the energy level of battery 1600 is above a certainoperating threshold, or battery 1600 is fully charged), as shown with asecond energy level 1620, the article may be configured for normaloperations. Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, a user may return to firstarticle 100 following a duration of time sufficient to charge thebattery for use in normal operation. This duration may vary widely, as,for example, the energy level of the battery can vary at the time theconnection between first article 100 and first component 112 occurs, orthe battery model or type may differ in different embodiments. In otherembodiments, other features may be configured differently in differentembodiments, such that the time required to charge the battery isvariable.

In FIG. 17, a user is beginning to insert foot 1300 into first article100 with battery 1600 at second energy level 1620. During this process,first article 100 remains connected to charging unit 110. However, itshould be understood that in other embodiments, first article 100 may befirst disconnected from the corresponding charging unit before foot 1300is inserted.

As mentioned above, in some embodiments, different states or functionsof the automated tensioning system may be triggered by the activation ofa sensor. In some embodiments, an autolacing process may be initiated bythe activation of a second sensor 1700 located in the article offootwear. In some embodiments, the sensor can detect changes inpressure. In different embodiments, second sensor 1700 may detect andmeasure a relative change in a force or applied load, detect and measurethe rate of change in force, identify force thresholds, and/or detectcontact and/or touch. In some cases, the sensor may comprise a generallytwo-dimensional material. In some embodiments, second sensor 1700 mayinclude a piezoelectric material. In other embodiments, second sensor1700 may have different dimensions and/or shapes in differentembodiments and be disposed in other regions or portions of firstarticle 100 than shown here. In some embodiments, the application ofpressure (for example, of a foot being inserted into first article 100)can activate second sensor 1700, which in turn can trigger other events,such as autolacing.

In one embodiment, second sensor 1700 can comprise a force sensitiveresistor (FSR). In some cases, as depicted in FIG. 17, the FSR (here,second sensor 1700) may be located along heel region 145 of firstarticle 100. Referring to FIG. 17, as a user begins to insert his/herfoot 1300 into first article 100, the FSR has not yet been engaged oractivated. Prior to the insertion of foot 1300, first article 100 may bein unlaced state 1204, as shown in third lacing region view 1750.However, as shown in subsequent FIG. 18, when foot 1300 is fullyinserted into first article 100, such that the heel of foot 1300 canapply pressure along heel region 145, second sensor 1700 (shown in FIG.17) can become activated in some embodiments. In one embodiment, whensecond sensor 1700 detects a predetermined or preset amount of pressureor weight (i.e., a force), second sensor 1700 becomes activated. In someembodiments, the engagement of second sensor 1700 can initiate a seriesof events and/or cause a change in the state of the automated tensioningsystem. In one embodiment, the activation or engagement of second sensor1700 initiates a process whereby first article 100 can transition fromunlaced state 1204 of FIG. 17 to laced state 1102 (shown in fourthlacing region view 1850 in FIG. 18). Thus, in some embodiments, theengagement of second sensor 1700 may inform the system that article 100is now being used or worn by a user, and that an autolacing process(represented by arrows in FIG. 18) may occur. In one embodiment, theautolacing process moves the article to laced state 1102.

Thus, as shown in FIG. 19, in different embodiments, automatedtensioning system 150 may include provisions to automatically tightenone or more article of footwear. In some embodiments, the automatictightening is configured to occur once the article detects that a userhas resumed the wearing of pair 135, and pair 135 is sufficientlycharged for normal operations. The autolacing feature may facilitate theuse of an article of footwear by allowing a user to rapidly and easilyinsert a foot into the article of footwear and be automatically fitted(i.e., whereby the tension level of the article is increased to adesired or preset setting) and ready for regular use. In someembodiments, the autola.cing process may occur only when the articleremains connected to the charger unit and a foot is inserted into thearticle. In other embodiments, the autola.cing can occur when a foot isinserted into the article, regardless of whether the article is stillconnected to the charger unit. However, in still other embodiments, theinsertion of a foot into the article of footwear does not necessarilytrigger the autolacing process, and such an operation may be optional.

In some embodiments, in order to detach the external charging componentfrom an article of footwear, a user may simply pull first article 100away from charging component 112 until the pulling force exceeds theattractive magnetic force between first element 810 and second element820 (see FIGS. 8-10). In other embodiments, the system may include anadditional device that can be adjusted or manipulated to “unlock” firstarticle 100 from charging component 112. For example, there may be apull tab such as a tensile element, a loop, or a hook that extends froma portion of first article 100 and can be grasped by a user and helprelease first article 100 from charging component 112.

It will be understood that the charging system discussed in thisdetailed description and in the claims can be used independently of atensioning system. In particular, since the charging system discussed inthis detailed description is used to charge a battery of some kind, thatbattery can be further coupled to one or more different electricalsystems. Generally, the charging system discussed in this detaileddescription and in the claims may be used to power any type ofelectrical system associated with an article of footwear. For example,in another embodiment, the charging system discussed in this embodimentcould be used to charge a battery to power an accelerometer or a sensorfor tracking distance and motion. In still another embodiment, thecharging system discussed here could be used to power a heating and/orcooling system for an article. Furthermore, it will be understood thatthe charging system could be used to power two or more electricalsystems simultaneously. In addition, the embodiments of the externalcharging unit as described herein may be utilized with any type orconfiguration of footwear or article of apparel that have any type ofsystem or mechanism.

In addition, in some embodiments, the charging unit need not be adjustedto accommodate different sizes of footwear. In other words, some or allportions of the charging system, such as the charging unit, can retaintheir original shape and dimensions and be used with footwear ranging insize from a “child size” to an “adult size.” For example, in someembodiments the charging system can be utilized with footwear rangingbetween U.S. standard size 6 and larger. In another embodiment, thecharging system could be used with footwear ranging from U.S. standardsize 4 and 20. In one embodiment, the charging system could be used withfootwear ranging from U.S. standard child size 5 to a men's size 21 orlarger.

Furthermore, the embodiments described herein may also include or referto techniques, concepts, features, elements, methods, and/or componentsfrom U.S. Patent Publication Number ______, published ______ (previouslyU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/723,972, filed May 28, 2015), titled“An Article of Footwear and a Method of Assembly of the Article ofFootwear,” (currently Attorney Docket No. 51-4835), U.S. PatentPublication Number ______, published ______, (previously U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/723,832, filed May 28, 2015), titled “A LockoutFeature for a Control Device,” U.S. Patent Publication Number ______,published ______, (previously U.S. Patent Application No. 62/167,881,filed May 28, 2015), titled “Method of Operation for Article of Footwearwith Autolace,” U.S. Patent Publication Number ______, published ______,(previously U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/723,880, filed May 28,2015), titled “An Article of Footwear And A Charging System For AnArticle Of Footwear,” U.S. Patent Publication Number ______, published______, (previously U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/723,994, filedMay 28, 2015), titled “A Sole Plate for an Article of Footwear,” U.S.Patent Publication Number ______, published ______, (previously U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/724,007, filed May 28, 2015), titled “AControl Device for an Article of Footwear,” and U.S. Patent PublicationNumber ______, published ______, (previously U.S. Patent ApplicationNumber, filed ______), titled “An Automated Tensioning System for anArticle of Footwear,” and the entirety of each application being hereinincorporated by reference.

While various embodiments have been described, the description isintended to be exemplary, rather than limiting, and it will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments andimplementations are possible that are within the scope of theembodiments. Although many possible combinations of features are shownin the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description,many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Anyfeature of any embodiment may be used in combination with or substitutedfor any other feature or element in any other embodiment unlessspecifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any ofthe features shown and/or discussed in the present disclosure may beimplemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, theembodiments are not to be restricted except in light of the attachedclaims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changesmay be made within the scope of the attached claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An article of footwear, the article of footwearcomprising: an upper and a sole structure; an automated tensioningsystem that is configured to adjust a tension level of the article offootwear from a first tension level to a second tension level, whereinthe first tension level is greater than the second tension level; acharging assembly, the charging assembly comprising an internal chargingdevice and a housing; a sensor, the sensor providing information to theautomated tensioning system when the charging assembly is connected toan external charging device; and the automated tensioning system beingconfigured to loosen the article of footwear from the first tensionlevel to the second tension level when the automated tensioning systemreceives information from the sensor indicating that the chargingassembly is connected to the external charging device.
 2. The article offootwear of claim 1, wherein the second tension level corresponds to anopen state of the article of footwear.
 3. The article of footwear ofclaim 1, wherein the charging assembly includes a ferromagneticmaterial, and wherein the charging assembly is configured tomagnetically couple with the external charging device.
 4. The article offootwear of claim 1, wherein the internal charging device is aninductive charging device that is configured to inductively couple withthe external charging device.
 5. The article of footwear of claim 4,wherein the article of footwear includes a battery that is chargedthrough an inductive charging process.
 6. The article of footwear ofclaim 3, wherein the charging assembly includes an attractive componentconfigured to strengthen the magnetic coupling between the chargingassembly and the external charging device.
 7. The article of footwear ofclaim 5, wherein the automated tensioning system is configured totighten the article of footwear from the second tension level to thefirst tension level when the automated tensioning system receivesinformation indicating that a foot has been inserted into an interiorcavity of the article of footwear and the battery has been charged. 8.The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the charging assemblyincludes a receiving recess configured to receive a portion of theexternal charging device.
 9. The article of footwear of claim 8, whereina height of the receiving recess is greater than a height of theexternal charging device.
 10. A method of controlling an article offootwear including an upper, a sole structure, an interior cavity, anautomated tensioning system, a battery, a charging assembly, and asensor, the method comprising: receiving information from the sensor,the sensor being configured to detect a connection of the chargingassembly with an external charging device; detecting if the chargingassembly is connected to the external charging device; and automaticallyloosening the article of footwear through an operation of the automatedtensioning system if the sensor determines that the charging assembly isconnected to the external charging device.
 11. The method of claim 10,further comprising: determining if the battery is charged; determiningif a foot is disposed in the interior cavity of the article of footwear;and automatically tightening the article of footwear through anoperation of the automated tensioning system if the battery is chargedand a foot is disposed in the interior cavity.
 12. The method of claim10, wherein the step of detecting a connection includes determining ifmagnetic coupling has occurred between the charging assembly and theexternal charging device.
 13. The method of claim 10, wherein the stepof automatically loosening the article of footwear includes the step ofinstructing the automated tensioning system to loosen the article offootwear.
 14. The method of claim 10, further comprising inductivelycharging the article of footwear when the charging assembly is connectedto the external charging device.
 15. A kit of parts, the kit of partscomprising: an article of footwear with an upper, a sole structure, aninterior cavity, an automated tensioning system, a battery, a chargingassembly, and a first sensor; an external charging device configured toconnect with the charging assembly in order to charge the battery of thearticle of footwear; and the charging assembly including a ferromagneticmaterial, wherein the charging assembly is configured to magneticallycouple with the external charging device.
 16. The kit of parts of claim15, wherein the automated tensioning system is configured to adjust atension level of the article of footwear from a first tension level to asecond tension level when the first sensor detects a connection betweenthe charging assembly and the external charging device, and wherein thefirst tension level is greater than the second tension level.
 17. Thekit of parts of claim 16, wherein the article of footwear furtherincludes a second sensor, wherein the automated tensioning system isconfigured to adjust the tension level of the article of footwear fromthe second tension level to a third tension level when the second sensordetects an insertion of a foot into the interior cavity of the articleof footwear and the battery is charged, and wherein the third tensionlevel is greater than the second tension level.
 18. The kit of parts ofclaim 15, wherein the external charging device includes a firstcomponent, a second component, and a Y-type cable, the Y-type cablehaving a first end, a second end, and a third end, wherein the first endof the Y-type cable connects to the first component, the second end ofthe Y-type cable connects to the second component, and the third end ofthe Y-type cable is configured to connect to an external power source.19. The kit of parts of claim 18, wherein the charging assembly isconfigured to connect with the first component or the second component.20. The kit of parts of claim 18, wherein the charging assembly includesa. receiving recess configured to receive the first component, andwherein a height of the receiving recess is greater than a height of thefirst component.
 21. The kit of parts of claim 18, wherein the chargingassembly includes an attractive component configured to help secure thearticle of footwear to the first component, and wherein the magneticcoupling between the charging assembly and the first component isconfigured to allow a user to remove a foot from the interior cavity ofthe article of footwear while the charging assembly is connected to thefirst component.